This webinar will offer insights into what it means to analyze rich sets of qualitative data. This data, for example, (video)recordings of verbal or non-verbal interaction, interviews, observations, require in-depth analyses and sophisticated interpretations. The aim is to support participants to understand qualitative content analysis in connection with other types of analyses applied to rich datasets. For example, interaction analysis supports interpretations of dialogues in educational contexts; while, other data can be used to generate complementary interpretations. The aim will be addressed by:

a) Presenting and discussing foundations for thinking and working qualitatively; b) Exploring and coding sampled interaction data; engaging in-depth with a data excerpt generated through coding; c) Relating the sampled data to other data types and combining interpretations.

I have implemented a major updated to the Agraphie podcast. Agraphie was used to be hosted on this very server. I now broke this link in order for the podcast to grow more freely. Agraphie is now available on all major plattforms (e.g., now also on Spotify).

The episode list here will not be updated and will eventually be taken offline.

Subscribe to the new RSS feed (by searching for Agraphie in your favorite podcast player!).

Mixed Methods Social Network Analysis brings together diverse perspectives from 42 international experts on how to design, implement, and evaluate mixed methods social network analysis (MMSNA). There is an increased recognition that social networks can be important catalysts for change and transformation.

This edited book from leading experts in mixed methods and social network analysis describes how researchers can conceptualize, develop, mix, and intersect diverse approaches, concepts, and tools. In doing so, they can improve their understanding and insights into the complex change processes in social networks. Section 1 includes eight chapters that reflect on “Why should we do MMSNA?”, providing a clear map of MMSNA research to date and why to consider MMSNA. In Section 2 the remaining 11 chapters are dedicated to the question “How do I do MMSNA?”, illustrating how concentric circles, learning analytics, qualitative structured approaches, relational event modeling, and other approaches can empower researchers.

This book shows that mixing qualitative and quantitative approaches to social network analysis can empower people to understand the complexities of change in networks and relations between people. It shows how mixed analysis can be applied to a wide range of data generated by diverse global communities: American school children, Belgian teachers, Dutch medical professionals, Finnish consultants, French school children, and Swedish right-wing social media users, amongst others. It will be of great interest to researchers and postgraduate students in education and social sciences and mixed methods scholars.

The paper “On the Relation between Task-Variety, Social Informal Learning, and Employability” is now available as “Online First” here: http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12186-018-9212-4

Abstract

Fluctuating demands and fast-changing job-requirements require organizations to invest in employees so that they are able to take up new tasks. In this respect, fostering employees’ employability is high on the agenda of many organizations. As a prerequisite for creating employability, many scholars have focused on the role of social informal learning. In this study, we extend this perspective and examine the relationships between task variety, social informal learning, and employability. We hypothesized that task variety is a catalyst for social informal learning, which in turn enhances employees’ employability. We contribute empirical evidence for this mechanism. However, while task variety leads to social informal learning and, subsequently, the competences needed for employability, task variety also may have negative direct effects on employability. We discuss the implications of these findings for future research and practice.

January 16, 2017 / Dominik / Comments Off on Preview: Social Approaches to Work-related Informal Learning: Development and Validation of a Scale measuring Feedback-, Help-, and Information-Seeking

My paper “Social Approaches to Work-related Informal Learning: Development and Validation of a Scale measuring Feedback-, Help-, and Information-Seeking” has been accepted for publication in the International Journal of Training and Development.

Abstract

Social approaches to work-related informal learning, such as proactive feedback-seeking, help-seeking, and information-seeking, are important determinants of development in the workplace. Unfortunately, previous research has failed to clearly conceptualize these forms of learning and does not provide a validated and generally applicable measurement instrument. We set out to develop and validate such a scale measuring social approaches to work-related informal learning (SWIRL-scale). We collected data in four organizations in Austria and the Netherlands, with a total sample size of 895 employees. These data were used to conduct exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, which showed four distinct factors: feedback-seeking from the supervisor, feedback-seeking from colleagues, help-seeking, and information-seeking. In conclusion, the SWIRL-scale is valid in a range of contexts and thus is an appropriate tool for research as well as human resource development practice.